Tamsin & Julie – Glasgow
Mr & Mrs Pike Dumfriesshire & Rosie the dog.

May 2005

We have had the most wonderful week. The house and views were fantastic. We love this corner of Scotland away from it all. Life is busy and such a lot of change, it was good for the soul.
Katie got a new front tooth and learned to stand up in the cot.
The Assynt hills are spectacular, the beach at Lochinver, the clean air, don’t want to go back!!!

Victor, Marie & Katie Reynolds

May 2005

Our first holiday in Scotland and what an introduction to the country. We have had a marvellous week at Windyhill, with day time temperatures ranging for 6 to 16 degrees. The weather was changeable but not very rainy. We had none of the persistent rain we had feared. Stac Pollaidh was climbed in glorious sunshine in 40 minutes from car park to 10 metres from the top, when continuing the climb with a young energetic dog on a lead would have been risky to say the least! Great trips were had, including Durness, where the walk to Caraidh point and lunch at the Balkenfiel Croft centre are to be highly recommended. Also not to be missed are the delight of the Achiltibuie smokehouse in Altandu. We will certainly return!.

de Kleine family, Germany

June 2005

Misty mountains and islands and the bluest of seas – you couldn’t ask for a better view than the one from the sitting room in Windyhill! It’s simply the best! We have spent many hours during our week here just sitting and watching how the scene changes with the liger, and how the colour change through blues, grey and silver. We’ve watched cuckoos, robins, blackbirds and thrushes and enjoyed the antics of the 2 collies in the house below. Our beagle, Chloe, was festinated by the 2 pigs just across the road.

The weather has been good (for Scotland) – sunny and warm for a few days, then cloudy and showers. There was only one downpour and that was while we were still in bed one morning.

The cottage is fantastic – we love the light and warmth of the upper floor. We have eaten well every night at the am Fuaran bar in Altandhu (we recommend the haddock!), and had a couple of very fresh seafood lunches at the Summer Isles Hotels. Not to mention kippers from the smokehouse for breakfast.

The only disappointment has been the lack of dolphins! Walks not to be missed – Rieff, Culnacraid, Old Dornie and Fox Point and Achnahaird Bay – and don’t miss the viewing point up the hill directly behind the cottage. It will be hard to leave tomorrow but there’s always next year!

Sue & Daryl Hayler - Hertfordshire.

June 2005

Another memorable trip. Each time we come we find new walks. Watching seals at Garvie Bay was probably the highlight. Also just sitting at the window watching the view is just so relaxing. A lovely well equipped cottage – we will definitely be back!

Helen Rose & roger Salmons- London

June 2005

Lovely relaxing, if energetic stay. The cottage was all we had hoped for. We love this area and the only change which we could see is that more and more people have found it! Our trip to Tanera Mhar yesterday just ended the holiday in a quiet and tranquil setting. We hope to be back in the not to distant future. We ate well at the Am Fuaran bar and the Summer Isles hotel – both are recommended

Gina & Ian Coupar – Oxfordshire

June 2005

First time to Scotland, long journey but worth the trip. We can only agree with past comments that the cottage and its facilities are excellent. Surrounding scenery superb. Weather was good. Local good was good. The highlight was a 4 hour cruise around the Summer Isles. Enjoy exploring..

Tricia & David – Middlesex

Couldn’t have chosen a better place to celebrate my 40th birthday. A walk to Cantharid beach in a blizzard, a picnic (yes we are quite mad!) and then back to put our feet up on the windowsill and watch the Altandu world go by. It will be hard to leave it all behind today but we plan to come back in the autumn and do it all again. Windyhill should be available on prescription from your doctor – who needs prozac!

Barbara & Jim Brent. Bolton.

March 2005

Who needs prozac indeed!!

We’ve had to best week here - 3rd time to Windyhill and it’s as lovely as always.
The weather has been lovely all week, only started drizzling tonight on the way home from the pub! We have spent the days playing Frisbee and catch on the nearby each, going for little walks to the nearby harbour and the rocks near Reiff.

The nearest pub must be sick of seeing us; we’ve been every night having pool tournaments and drinking the Tenants! The house has been lovely – can’t fault it, we all love sitting in the chairs with our feet up on the windowsill watching the world go by – bliss.

Ann, Caroline, Steve, Ryan, Bobby & Kev. Nottingham

March 2005

This is our fourth visit to Windyhill and we have enjoyed it as much as on any of the previous occasions. We started the week with the circular road walk (area 8.5miles) Altandu to Achnahaird then past Loch Raa and Loch Vatachan through Polbain and back to Windyhill. We walked to the beach on day two and one lazy day watching the swirling masses on water below the house. On day four we drove to the bookshop at Inverkirkaig and did the walk up to the falls of Kirkay. This takes a little bit longer than is indicated by looking at the map. On our final day, we walked to the headland at Old Donnie (just past the second jetty). The weather was glorious and the view magnificent. We haven’t been fortunate enough to see any eagles this time but say a heron at Loch Camas , plenty of Wheatears, a few oystercatchers, skylarks aplenty, twits and assorted tits.

One tip to pass on is that Polbain stores will deliver provisions in advance of your arrival. You can lock them up on goggle.

Terry & Mary.

April 2005

We arrived a couple of days late with our two small babies. Sitting here writing this the waves are quite high on the beach. The views from Windyhill and its surrounding areas are breathtaking and very picturesque. We didn’t end up doing much but we did go to Durness for the beaches for Ben which he loves bless him. Durness beach is quite a long drive but the views made up for the drive. Ben also loved the “Baas” as he called them which occupied him on the drive back to Windyhill. There is a supermarket in Ullapool which has a wide selection. We plan to come back when the boys are older so we can do some of the walks and they can appreciate e the scenery.

The Walton’s West Yorkshire.

April 2005
Sitting here, looking at the magnificent view it seems to have changed again this evening – you can’t help but feel calm and peace here – away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Even with our beautiful four month old daughter we have had a perfect week – she has even slept better! Must be the fresh air. She met the two pigs today across the road and was quite bemused.

The accommodation has been wonderful, a fantastic living space, we have had everything we needed for a week away. Having to walk to the nearest shop wasn’t a chore, worth it for the views. We never managed a trip to the local pub as 9 o clock us our daughter’s curfew – but I’m sure it’s worth the visit. We managed to but some local smoked cheese and salmon (and even got two lots thrown in for free!

Hopefully my husband might surprise me with another trip to this little bit f heaven.

The Tyrell’s – Edinburgh.

April 2005

We’ve had a lovely relaxing few days in your beautiful cottage. Much of our time has been spent enjoying the amazing views fro the picture window. Weather has been kind to us and we are returning to the city refreshed and full of the healthy country air!

Zoe, Andy, Mark & Wilf London & Inverness.

April 2005

We have had a fantastic week
The first 3 days we had glorious sun and then Windyhill lived up to its name with storms and gales!! However the views are amazing and set a perfect scene whatever the weather. We have visited Scotland many times but have never come this far north – this is a gorgeous part of the country with dramatic and wild landscapes and Windyhill is a gorgeous cottage in that setting.
The walk to the waterfall Eas a Chual Aluinn is stunning and the effort is worth it.. The Kirkaid waterfall is also a pleasant walk and we recommend walking the extra mile to have a picnic beside the picturesque Fionn loch below Sulven. Stac Pollaidh is a fantastic walk even if you don’t make it to the top. The low cloud cover beat us off the summit path though the views were worth the effort. We went to John O’ Groats. We recommend that if you want a great drive then just go as far as the Kyle of Tongue on the north west coast tourist route. The drive beyond the point is no comparison the first half. A walk around the point of Stuerr in high winds was electrifying and terrifying all at once – great.

We had luck with the wildlife and watched a school of dolphins swimming right by the bay at Achiltibuie and followed them down the road into Polbain. The lady at the smokehouse says that this is common. We also watched seals although this was in a bay about 9 miles beyond the point of Stoler.

All in all it was a wonderful week that will love with us for a long, long time. Thank you for sharing Windyhill.

Gareth & Tessa O’Mana. Surrey.

Wonderfully peaceful 2 weeks here at Windyhill Cottage – mixed weather in the first week which gave opportunity for lighting the stove – has to be done, but need to turn all other forms of heating off well in advance as the house is so well insulated!

Walk up and over the hill at Dornie lovely views, and around the coast to Garvie Bay beautiful. Drives to Lochinver, Point of Stoer and around Poolewe in a circle all well worth it – lovely Bridge Coffee House and gallery in Poolewe.

Agree completely with previous guests about the Hydroponcium and Summer Isles Hotel. The salad bags from the Hydroponcium are fabulous. Also excellent shop for wool next to Safeways in Ullapool – and 2World” goods etc. Walking shop and Ceilidh place also good for coffees, papers, cakes and general musing. Don't know where the hours go! Cottage superb. Hope to return for 3 weeks as soon as possible.

Sarah

Windyhill is a great cottage to stay in – by good fortune we had some poor weather, stove blazing, chair in the window, snoring. Would be awful if the weather was good all the time. Excellent collection of pans in the Kitchen. Grand collection of books, have added some. The walk in the booklet that takes you to Garvie Bay is brilliant for spotting seals. For deer, drive along the single track road from Ullapool when it is dark.

Mark

October 2004

As said previously lovely view, window central for cosy chats, reading and cups of teas. Home had a comfortable feeling, enjoyed “real” fire (Brought back memory of sitting round the fire when young). Learned about hydroponics. Had nice walks on a few beaches. Saw deer on way home from Ullapool at night. Layed – Back sheep. Nice memories of our relaxing holiday. This was a treat holiday from my kind son and daughter – in - law and much appreciated. Would recommend this place.

Regards

Jackie, Mark and John.

October 2004

Recommended Walks:-

Rieff around the headland gives great seascapes. Falls of Kirkcraig is a wonderful walk up a wooded valley. Go beyond the falls to the summit point for fabulous views across Inverpolly National Nature Reserve. The walk from the lighthouse at Stoer to the Old Man of Stoer also provides wonderful seascapes. The coastal path was considerably drier than the inland route.

Stac Pollaidh is worth the haul up if the top is clear for the view across the lochs to the North. The bay in front of the cottage has provided plenty of wildlife to watch, highlights have included a merlin charming, meadow pipits, several Mack – Throated Divers, red – breasted mergansers and mack quillemots. Occasional Grey seals and a brief view of two otters were the main mammal highlights.

February 2005

How my husband managed to get flowers here ready for our arrival amazed me we are in the back and beyond! (I think Michelle in Polbain Stores helped). As per everybody else lovely views, the weather stayed good, had real chill out time. We haven't been walking or exploring have enjoyed the nothingness and great views. Off to Gleaneagles now before we head back home and back to work.

Liz, Kev and Arianne – Southampton.

A great fortnight at Windyhill. Weather mixed but no Midges and views from the house always stunning in rain or sun. Cloud cover stopped us 50 ft from the top of Stac Pollaidh so we'll have have to come back! In brilliant sunshine we had Achnhaird beach to ourselves. The house itself was one of the best features of our stay, comfortable and well equipped. It contributed hugely to a stress free and relaxing holiday.

Dinner at the Drumbeg Hotel was a real highlight. Rooms where clean and comfortable but the food was amazingly good. We only managed to do a fraction of what we'd like to do here so we'll surely return.

Linda, John McWilliam – Staffordshire

September 2004

Possibly one of the laziest weeks of our lives! The perfect house and location to escape from the hassle of London. It's not often that you can take a couple of hours stroll to get a newspaper and a pint of milk! We would love to buy the house!

Many thanks

John, Michelle and William (aged 1 ¾ )

P.S. William loved the place too – but he can't write!

September 2004

We concur with comments of previous people with regard to the house and its setting. It is a truly idyllic place. Walks from the leaflet titled “ Walking Round Achiltibuie” are to be recommended and the views from the Stac Polly” are stunning.

Joan and Paul – Wilkshire

September 2004

Brilliant week, despite mixed weather. Delighted by the house, views and by how cosy and comfortable we were in gale force wind and rain. Really enjoyed Hydroponcium, smokery and village stores at Polbain. Soup, bread and mixed leaves from Hydroponcium excellent, even if you already know everything you want to about hydroponically grown stuff – if (like us) you know nothing the experience is even more interesting. We think the smoked fish from the smokery may even rival Crasters ( and thats saying something ). The village store at Polbain managers to cram into a tiny space all sorts of interesting and uselful things. We had a pleasant lunch at the mountain equipment shop opposite the museum at Ullapool and enjoyed a little browse in the book shop. The garden at Lechmelm is certainly worth a visit if you're interested in wonderful trees ( 3 miles South of Ullapool).

Recommended walks would certainly include the 1st one in the local booklet, especially on a good day, when the views are spectacular. The journey over to Lochinver is stunning – stop at Inverkirkaig for the waterfall walk and the bookshop and cafe.

Reiff walk delightful, fantastic coastline and rock formations. Really excellent meal in the bar of the Summer Isles Hotel, there special apple cake is exquisite!

Nick & Helen Northumberland

We had wonderful weather and managed some great walks; can thoroughly recommend “walking around Achilibuie” for good walks both long and short. We travelled up to the North of Scotland this time, a beautiful drive – The beach at Durness is magical.  A well designed house, which feels like a home. The view in every light is unforgettable.

Helen & Rose – London

July 2004

A beautiful place to unwind – We practically unravelled!  Probably spent too long sitting looking out to sea instead of climbing mountains but when you’re 6 months pregnant its nice to have the excuse not to. Will remember the bracing coastal walks and beach ponies and some nice lunches at the Lily pond café at the Achiltibuie Hydropondicum and our wonderfully clean, comfortable and spacious cottage.

Linda & Ian - West Yorks

July 2004

Our first time in Scotland and what a wonderful place to choose. The views are stunning; the house so different from the rest; the living room is just made for looking and dreaming. We didn’t venture far – Invereuie was amazing and gave an insight into what could be done by determined gardeners.

Giles – Co Durham

July 2004

Absolutely Fabulous!  A first class place to stay. We will especially remember the fantastic views and how fortunate we were having had perfect weather throughout our stay here.  We would like to return and hope that the new owners will continue to let the house.

Ian & Donna Durham

August 2004

This fantastic house has really contributed to our lovely holiday and made us feel relaxed, rested, peaceful and at home!  We’ve walked, “beached” explored, played and just admired the incredible views from all the windows.

Janine & Chris - Oxfordshire

March 2004

Our 2nd time in this area – our 1st time in Windyhill.  Loved the space, the view, the sun streaming in the many windows.  A wonderful place to relax.

Maureen & Dave Edinburgh

April 2004

Managed to esape to enjoy this beautiful area for just a couple of days. Well worth it though, as we crammed in the necessary walks, visit to purchase some art, fine food and wine, not to mention the most magnificent sand castle at Achnahaird!  A first class holiday home, to which I would like to return.

Callum and Ellie

April 2004

Mixed weather didn’t stop us from having wonderful week here Windyhill is beautiful and the views are breath taking.  We enjoyed the outdoors and the indoors!

Outdoor highlights include lovely coastal walks and an exhilarating if rather tiring climb up Stac Pollaidh! Driving on the road from Kylesku to Lochinver we came across a little piece of paradise on the beach at Clashnessie.

Although we are seasoned travellers this is our first visit to the highlands, but we will be definitely be coming back!  We are very very sad L to be leaving, well done for creating such a perfect holiday home.  You have thought of everything thank you.

The Hackett Family - Armitage Staffs

April 2004

Having spent many holidays in Scotland over the last 10 years we have stayed in a great variety of holiday homes but Windyhill stands head and shoulders above the others.  The house is so well designed and in such a great location, it takes the breath away.  The view throught he window has seemed different every day, the colours, textures and forms constantly altered by the effect of sunshine and clouds.  The view from the top of hill behind the house is even more spectacular as An Teallach is hidden when looking through the window.

Driving from Windyhill through Inverpolly in the mornings has been incredibly impressive – silhouetted mountains with sunlight reflecting off the surface of the lochs.  It would be impossible to take bad landscape photos around here.

The weather has been changeable for our week but it hasn’t spoilt our holiday in the least.  We’ve seen loads of Deer, Curlew, Oyster Catchers, Black Throated Divers and even Golden Eagles.  This house must be the best we’ve ever stayed in, the kitchen has everything you could wish for and so much thought has obviously gone into creating the perfect holiday retreat.

David & Sylvia Stooke and our Mums – Salisbury

May 2004

Came looking rest and relaxation – new we found it as soon as we walked in the door.  In the 18 years I have been with him, I’ve never known my huband to relax enough to sit still and read a book cover to cover – he did here!

Shona & Ewen Clunie - Perth